DOROTHY RUGIRA
Welcome to our edition of Canary Wharf for Kids where we’ll be giving you some great tips on things to do in Canary Wharf with kids to help you plan your next family day out. From family friendly restaurants to art trails and play areas, there's something for children of all ages across the Estate.
FAMILY FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS IN CANARY WHARF
There’s a host of family friendly restaurants in Canary Wharf to choose from, so we’ve picked out a few of our favourites:
1. WAGAMAMA
Wagama is located in Jubilee Place and is open from 11am – 10pm every day which makes it the perfect spot for a late breakfast, lunch, or afternoon snack for all the family.
Inspired by bustling ramen bars, their layout makes it easy for groups big or small to take a seat and tuck into tasty, wholesome, freshly cooked dishes in no time. You can choose from a range of ramen, curry, donburi or even a fresh salad, and their kid’s menu make sit a great spot for a family meal out.
They also provide colouring and activity sheets to keep little ones entertained throughout the meal so the adults can sit back and relax and take in all the flavours!
2. NANDOS
Everyone’s favourite, Nandos is also a great spot for a family feast. Found in Cabot Place, Nandos offers a variety of healthy and hearty chicken dishes alongside some sumptuous sides that are sure to go down a treat with the kids.
Their “Nandinos” menu is specially designed for children, offering smaller portions but packing all the same flavour in, and bottomless soft drinks are on offer which makes it a great option for kid’s parties as well.
3. ZIZZI
Newly opened, fan-favourite Zizzi has finally come to Canary Wharf taking up residence in Cabot Place and sure to provide a fun and filling meal for all the family.
Whether you choose one of their classic rustica pizzas or go for a spectacular pasta dish, you’ll be sure to soak up the flavours of Italy with a Zizzi-stamped twist. Enjoy light bites or a more filling meal to break up the day.
KIDS ACTIVITIES IN CANARY WHARF
Along with great places to eat, there are tonnes of places to play. Our favourites include:
1. CHILDREN'S ART TRAIL
The Children’s art trail is an art-based treasure hunt where kids can track down 12 different pieces of art dotted around the Canary Wharf estate.
Sure to keep the kids entertained, and introduce a bit of art and culture to the day, the children’s art trail is not to be missed.
2. ANIMAL PETTING AT MUDCHUTE FARM AND PARK
If you’re looking for something a little more hands-on to enjoy, Mudchute Farm and Park is set in 32 acres and offers the chance to book animal encounters Explore the site and learn about the farm animals and the preservation activities the team are working on.
This one is great for all the family, and we’d highly recommend getting in touch with the team to book onto one of their animal encounters if you’re planning in advance.
3. ICE SKATING
Returning to Canary Wharf this year, the Ice Rink is one of the best things to do with kids in Canary Wharf. Skate beneath the stars in a purpose-built ice rink and let the kids run circles while the adults relax in the Off Piste bar, overlooking the rink of course so you can keep an eye on them.
Children can book sessions for discount prices, each lasting 50 minutes, or you can book a family ticket for four skaters and extra savings.
FAMILY FRIENDLY PLACES TO LIVE IN CANARY WHARF
Looking to find your new home for the family? Newfoundland building has an outdoor play area and indoor kidult area to keep the kids entertained throughout the day, right in the safety of your own home – all the fun, none of the mess.
There are also regular meets with the Vertus Parent & Child Group where all ages are welcome, so you can mix with other families in the building. The Vertus Plus spaces provide a great atmosphere to foster friendships for adults and children alike.
The Vertus in-house events team also curate programmes of other events for the family to enjoy throughout the year, so you’ll never be short of things to do with kids in Canary Wharf, especially not right on your doorstep.
PLACES TO LEARN
As well as food and fun and countless activities to choose from, if you’re looking for a little more education to add to the mix the Museum of London Docklands is a great place to visit. The Mudlarks children’s gallery is a free interactive space for kids under eight, where they’ll be able to have fun and learn at the same time.
The Bright Horizon nursery and the brand-new kindergarten in Wood Wharf, opening this Autumn, are also fantastic options for enrolling your kids in local schools, making it an even more desirable place to live.
Be sure to explore Canary Wharf this half term for child friendly activities and a fun family day out.